4 Tips to Prevent Winter Related Damages to Your Lawn from the Respected Calgary Landscapers, Scott's Sod

Scott's Sod Sales & Installation • February 3, 2017

 

Winters in Calgary are harsh and can wreak havoc on area landscapes, leading to dead, patchy, and discolored lawns. However, spending a few moments throughout the winter can greatly reduce the potential damages. Here's how.

 

Rock Salt and Snow Melt

 

Keeping your walkways clear of ice is important for the safety of your loved ones and guests, however, the salt used to melt ice and snow can settle on the edges of your lawn. Salt buildup can burn your grass and stop it from growing in the spring. To prevent this problem, avoid putting salt directly on your lawn. Other options include:

 

  • Raking up the excess salt
  • Flooding the area regularly as the weather warms

 

Debris Buildup

 

As you shovel or plow snow throughout the winter , road matter and other debris mingles with the snow. When the snow melts, this debris settles on your yard, which can smother new growth and kill your grass. While snow piles and debris are unavoidable in Calgary, stay on top of the problem by removing debris as the snow melts. The best way to do this is by raking the area throughout the winter, or soon after the last snow of the season.

 

Plows and Shoveling

 

Unfortunately plowing and shoveling your snow can damage your yard, particularly when the edge between your driveway and grass is not well defined. Ideally, you can mark the edge before the first snow to help prevent turf damage. However, if this is not possible, pay close attention and replace any disturbed sod. Extensive damages may require intervention from landscaping companies in Calgary that specialize in sod, such as Scott's Sod in Airdrie.

 

Frost and Ice

 

Frost and ice look so beautiful reflecting the morning sun; however, if something walks across a frosted lawn, they can damage the grass by destroying the cell structures. To prevent a path of browned foot prints come spring, avoid walking across the frozen grass and request your guests do the same. If you already have a path carved out of your ice coated lawn, you may need to install new sod .

 

For more information about preventing winter related damages to your Calgary area lawn, please contact the experts at Scott's Sod. As one of the quickest growing landscaping companies in Calgary, Scott's Sod specializes in the installation and maintenance of high quality sod.

 

By Scott's Sod March 31, 2025
A healthy, lush lawn doesn’t happen by accident—it requires the right care and maintenance. One of the most effective ways to promote strong, vibrant grass is through aeration. But what exactly is aeration, why is it important, and when should you do it? Let’s break it down. What is Lawn Aeration? Lawn aeration is the process of creating small holes in the soil to allow air, water, and nutrients to penetrate deeper into the root zone. Over time, soil can become compacted due to foot traffic, heavy lawn equipment, and natural settling. Compacted soil makes it difficult for grass roots to access the essential elements they need to thrive. Aeration alleviates this compaction, promoting healthier root growth and improving overall lawn health. The Key Benefits of Aeration Enhanced Nutrient Absorption – Aeration allows essential nutrients, water, and oxygen to reach the root system more effectively, leading to stronger, healthier grass. Reduced Soil Compaction – Frequent use of your lawn—whether from kids playing, pets running, or regular mowing—can lead to compacted soil. Aeration helps break up this compaction, allowing roots to grow freely. Improved Root Development – Deep, well-developed roots are key to a resilient and drought-resistant lawn. Aeration encourages roots to expand deeper into the soil. Thatch Reduction – Thatch is a layer of dead grass and organic matter that can build up on your lawn, blocking water and nutrients. Aeration helps break down thatch, improving soil structure. Stronger, More Resilient Grass – With better access to nutrients and oxygen, your lawn will be greener, thicker, and better able to withstand stressors like heat, drought, and heavy use. When is the Best Time to Aerate Your Lawn? Timing is crucial when it comes to aeration. The best time to aerate depends on the type of grass you have: Cool-Season Grasses (Kentucky Bluegrass, Fescue, Ryegrass): Aerate in early spring or early fall when the grass is actively growing. Warm-Season Grasses (Bermuda, Zoysia, St. Augustine): Aerate in late spring or early summer when the grass is in peak growing season (These varieties are not common to see in Alberta). In Southern Alberta, because of our soil type, we recommend aeration be done at most once a year for most lawns. If you have installed new sod or grass seed recently, it is recommended that you wait around 2 years before aerating it for the first time. If you notice water pooling on the surface, thinning grass, or difficulty inserting a screwdriver into the soil, it’s a good indication that your lawn could use aeration. How to Aerate Your Lawn Aeration can be done using either a spike aerator (which creates holes by pushing spikes into the soil) or a core aerator (which removes small plugs of soil). Core aeration is the most effective method for reducing compaction and improving soil health. If you’re not sure how or when to aerate, hiring a professional lawn care service can ensure the job is done right. Final Thoughts Aeration is a simple but highly effective way to keep your lawn healthy, resilient, and beautiful. By aerating at the right time and following up with proper watering and fertilization, you’ll enjoy a greener, thicker lawn that stands up to the elements. If you’re ready to give your lawn a boost, consider scheduling an aeration service this season! Need help with aeration? Scott’s Sod offers professional aeration services to keep your lawn in top shape. Contact us today to book your service!
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